We’re not in Kansas (Tennessee?) Anymore

Studying abroad means a lot of changes and differences but the key word is STUDYING abroad! You’re going to be entering a new university and a new university system, one that may be a bit different than your Maryville College experience.

Academic:

-Most of the classes that are offered at UPN are broken down in a few parts, a large portion of the grade is determined by the final or final paper, and other major categories that are present in grade make up are projects and presentations or participation. Unlike many course in the US, there are not a large variety of categories like homework, quizzes, etc.

-The classroom is a place of learning and respect, especially for the professor who is referred to in the usted form and always properly addressed. Another aspect of this is dress. Spaniards are trendy and this applies to the classroom. Workout and house clothes are not acceptable for class.

-The semester set up is very similar to that of the US except that it goes for a bit longer into the summer. There is an exam week just as there is at Maryville the week after classes end. There is a week-long break around Easter as well that can be spent however.

-There is a high value on students’ self-responsibility and dedication to coursework especially since homework and smaller grades are not taken up.

Credits:

-Most of the courses that you will find are offered at 6 credit hours and usually involve about 75 hours of instruction and class time.

-Most students take between 5-6 of these courses; so about 30-36 hours opposed to Maryville’s 15-18. 6 hours at UPN = 3 hours at MC.

Grades:

The following is the grading scale:

Spanish	US
10	A
9	A
8	B+
7	B
6	C+
5	C
3-4	F
0-3	F

Support:

-There is a support system at UPN similar to the one at MC, but not nearly as extensive. Students have to inquire about tutoring services if they are needed.

Full Time Status:

-Though I am not certain (I have inquired at the school), I think that full time status at UPN is 30 hours. At MC it is 12 hours which would be the equivalent of 24 at UPN.